A WOMAN motorcyclist who died following a crash has been named.

Anita Rabbitt, aged 45, of Longfield Road, Bolton, was riding a Suzuki 500 motorcycle along Meadow Pit Lane, Wigan, towards Riley Lane at about 4.10pm on Sunday.

Anita is believed to have lost control of the bike as she approached a bend and crossed the carriageway, where she collided with a silver Toyota Yaris and was thrown from the bike.

She was taken to hospital but died a short time later.

The driver of the Yaris was not injured.

Anita worked as a customer services assistant at Body Group in Bolton and had a love of motorbikes and enjoyed going out every Sunday riding with friends.

Her family and her partner Alan - who asked police not to release his surname - have paid tribute to Anita, saying: "We are all shocked and devastated, and cannot believe that this has happened.

"Anita was the best friend in the world to anybody, and would do anything for anybody."

Anita's mum Shirley added: "She meant the world to us and you could depend on her for anything. We are lost without her."

Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to call traffic police on 0161 856 7201.